Mechanical Drafting Technician

Diploma: Certificate

Location: Downtown

Two individuals working in an office setting, collaborating on a project. One is standing while the other is seated, both looking at documents and digital screens displaying designs or models.

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Overview

Learn Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD) and 3D Building Information Modelling (BIM) tools and techniques used in the mechanical processes for mining, energy, chemical processing, and fabrication as well as building systems and commercial development.

Tuition $7,214
Credential Certificate
Length 10 months
Hours Full-time
Delivery Class-based and Online
Campus Downtown
Start Dates

What to expect

What you will learn

  • Use drawing techniques to complete projects in orthographic projection, sectioning, dimensioning, auxiliary view, and machine detailing.
  • Apply concepts in orthographic projection, sectioning, dimensioning, auxiliary view, and machine detailing.
  • Employ Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) and three-dimensional (3D) modelling systems skills to produce drawings from data, designs, and/or specifications.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of drafting and 3D modeling skills and conventions.
  • Develop drafting, 3D Building Information Modeling (BIM) and related trade skills and knowledge.
  • Apply critical thinking, team building, and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Apply concepts of building construction and technology to plan and detail commercial and industrial facilities in accordance with local by-laws and the BC Building Code.
  • Utilize concepts of mechanical and process technology and planning to produce drawings and 3D models of industrial facilities.
  • Employ mechanical engineering theories and BIM practices to prepare engineering drawings from 3D model that incorporate mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems in building structures.
  • Prepare a comprehensive professional portfolio.
  • Perform job search skills such as preparing a résumé and cover letter.

Program Duration and Maximum Time for Completion

Duration:  Ten (10) months comprised of three terms.

Maximum Time for Completion:  Three (3) years.

Admission Requirement

Program-specific

Notes:

  • VCC CAD Technician Short Certificate graduates (granted within the last 2 years) may be eligible to receive credit for: DRFT 1010, DRFT 1011, DRFT 1012, DRFT 1013.

Missing prerequisites? Learn more about VCC's tuition-free academic upgrading or English as a Second Language (ESL) courses, or discover which university transfer options are right for you.

Recommended Characteristics

  • Related work experience
  • General computer skills, including working knowledge of Windows OS.
  • Good mechanical comprehension.
  • Ability to work in imperial and metric units of measurement.
  • Good hand-eye coordination, ability to look at computer screen for long periods of time,  to complete seated work for long periods of time, and manual dexterity for keyboard/mouse.
  • Successful work habits and an ability to work well with others.
  • Logical reasoning, spatial ability, and an ability to visualize objects.
  • An interest in all aspects of architecture, engineering, general construction and related fields.

Program Availability

Not currently available.

Courses

This program is offered full time during the day (approximately 3 days a week from 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.). Days and times are subject to change.

Plan of Study Grid
First YearCredits
DRFT 1010 CAD Drafting Fundamentals 4
DRFT 1011 CAD Drafting Applied 3
DRFT 1012 Office & Construct Site Safety 1
DRFT 1013 Construction Mathematics 1
DRFT 1140 Electrical and Plumbing Systems 3
DRFT 1145 HVAC and Fire Suppression System 4
DRFT 1217 Process Flow, Piping, and Instrumentation Diagrams 2
DRFT 1218 Equipment Detail and Plant Layout 3
DRFT 1219 Process Piping and Pipe Fabrication 3
DRFT 1220 3D Modeling Fundamentals 3
DRFT 1221 Mechanical Equipment Modelling and Layout 2
DRFT 1225 Professional Communication 1.5
DRFT 1324 3D Piping Systems Modelling 2.5
DRFT 1344 BIM for Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing Projects 4
DRFT 1364 Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing for Pipe Fabrication 3
 Credits40
 Total Credits40

This information is intended as a guideline only. Program and course details are subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors.

Fees and Costs

Application fee $36
Tuition / Term $7,214 Year 1 - $1,623
Year 2 - $2,705
Year 3 - $2,886
Student union $217
College initiative $121
Campus resource $145
Medical & Dental $285 Provided by Student Union
U-Pass $469 Discounted, unlimited transit pass. Learn more.
Graduation $45
Total $8,530

* Fees are approximate and subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors. Students are required to pay any applicable fee increases. Application and assessment fees are non-refundable. Tuition fees include a non-refundable deposit ($300 or $500, depending on program).

Fees listed are for domestic students. For international programs, visit VCC International.

Any refunds are issued according to VCC's refund policy.

Need help with tuition?

Explore your options for scholarships, grants, bursaries, and loans.

Technical requirement

General technology requirements for online learning

How to Apply

TO APPLY FOR THE MECHANICAL DRAFTING TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATE:

If you want to take the Mechanical Engineering Technician Certificate, go to EducationPlannerBC and apply for the Mechanical Drafting Technician Diploma. Once you have successfully completed term 3, you may request to exit the program and obtain a certificate.

TO REQUEST ADVANCED ENTRY INTO TERM 2:

You may be considered for advanced entry into term 2 if you have completed one of the following:

  • VCC CAD Technician Short Certificate (granted within the last 4 years)
  • Drafting 11 and 12 in high school (with Departmental approval)

 

Ready to apply?

Online

You will be directed to EducationPlannerBC.

Mail

Fill out a PDF form and mail to:
VCC Registrar's Office
1155 East Broadway
Vancouver, B.C., V5T 4V5

Contact us

Advising services

Phone: 604.871.7000, option 2
Email: studentservice@vcc.ca

Advising services for International students

study@vcc.ca

Indigenous Territory Acknowledgment

VCC is located on the traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) peoples, and we acknowledge our privilege to be here.